No matter whether you’re shopping for a seashell necklace or looking for the best salt water taffy, the beauty and history of these towns are remarkable!

Beautiful East Coast Beach Towns from North to South

Kennebunkport, Maine

Nowhere says summer to me quite like Coastal Maine, and Kennebunkport may just be one of my favorite beach towns. The town itself has been around since the 1600s but only in the last hundred years or so has it become the resort destination it is now. Stay in the adorable waterfront Cottages at Cabot Cove, head out to Cape Porpoise to take in the epic coastal views as well as the beautiful Goat Island Lighthouse, treasure hunt around Goose Rocks Beach, and sunbathe at Colony or Parson’s Beaches. 

New Castle, New Hampshire

I grew up a few miles away from the tiny beach town of New Castle, which is one of my favorite places in New Hampshire! If you want a quieter trip, book a stay at Wentworth-by-the-Sea, one of the few Gilded Age hotels that still exist today. Spend your non-beach days sightseeing around the Seacoast, and then pull up some chairs and watch the sunset from New Castle’s shores. Don’t miss the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse while you’re here!

Chatham, Massachusetts

A classic old-school beach town, Chatham sits at the elbow of Cape Cod’s bent arm.  With its unique “modern fishing town” personality, you’ll find it the perfect place to escape the crowds and relax. Be sure to visit Chatham Lighthouse Beach, it’s one of the best places to enjoy an afternoon and has to be one of the best beaches on the Cape.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

I meet a lot of folks who have never heard of Watch Hill.  Its ample supply of Victorian era homes ranging from ocean-side mansions to prim cottages make it easy to imagine life before 24-hour news cycles and social media. The thought of spending some time there with my cell phone and laptop replaced with a book, sunscreen and a towel makes me very happy. And if I want a break from the beach? I’ll just enjoy an afternoon tea at Olympia Tea Room.

Montauk, New York

Once a sleepy fishing village at the furthest edge of Long Island, Montauk has always been a celebrity favorite for quiet getaways. Even though it’s become more popular, along with the rest of the Hamptons, it’s still a charming town. Check out (or join!) the surfers at Ditch Plains Beach, head over to New York’s oldest lighthouse at Montauk Point, and feast on seafood with friends at Harvest on Fort Pond. 

Cape May, New Jersey

While technically Cape May is on the Jersey Shore, it’s the opposite of what you would expect.  This historic Victorian seaside gem is one of the most beautiful beach towns and weekend getaways you can imagine, with nearly 600 preserved Victorian buildings.  Ride the trolley, search for Cape May Diamonds, or stroll along the Washington Street Mall.

Rehoboth, Delaware

When people think of Rehoboth, they think All-American classic.  Located on the Delaware Shores, its ocean-front boardwalk, incredible beaches, 50-year-old amusement park, and saltwater taffy remind us of days gone by.  The very popular (and major party scene) Dewey Beach is two miles south on Hwy 1.  If you drive another 3 miles you can visit the Delaware Seashore Park, which is a preserved area that is both rustic and unbelievably beautiful.

Chincoteague, Virginia

Escape the crowds and enjoy the rustic serenity of Chincoteague Island! Not only is it Virginia’s only resort island, it’s a great gateway town to explore the massive, wildly beautiful Assateague Island National Seashore. You’ll love the quaint, historic feel of Chincoteague, and if you plan your timing right, you could be here for the annual Pony Swim! (Yes, the one made famous in Misty of Chincoteague.) It’s exactly as the name suggests – each year the Chincoteague ponies have been starring in their own summer blockbuster as they swim across the channel between Assateague and Chincoteague Islands. 

Duck, North Carolina

Along Route 12 in the northern Outer Banks sits a small, quiet and very charming beach town that you’re sure to love. It’s perfect for families. You can ride your bike along the path, go kayaking in the sound, learn more of our early aviation history in nearby Kitty Hawk, and enjoy the 7 miles of clean, pristine beaches.  The shopping is incredible, and once you try a fresh, warm donut from Duck Donuts, you’ll never be the same.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Located in the southern Outer Banks is what’s nicknamed America’s Favorite Small Town – Beaufort! Not only is it a great spot to base yourself for exploring North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, it has that unique mix of southern and historic charm. When you want a beach break, take a stroll through its Historic District to check out all the different architecture. While on the coast, try the classic tomato pie at The Friendly Market, see if you can spot wild horses on Shackleford Island, and be sure to visit Cape Lookout both during the day and at night for a starry surprise. 

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Looking for a beach town with history? Check out Kiawah Island, which is a stone’s throw from Charleston. Not only does this barrier island have gorgeous beaches, it has forests, salt marshes, and lagoons as well. Splurge on a stay at The Sanctuary, rent a bike to get around, and don’t forget to stop in to Fort Sumter for some Civil War history.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Also right outside of Charleston (about a 20 minute drive) is a charming little beach community called Folly Beach. Seems like the perfect place to unwind, eat some seafood, do a little paddle-boarding and relax and watch the waves tumble in.  Spend the day hunting for beach treasures, fishing or kayaking, and then head out for some fun on Center Street or live music at Loggerheads or the Sand Dollar.

Tybee Island, Georgia

If you drive roughly 20 miles east from Savannah, you’ll run into the wonderful white sandy beaches of Tybee Island.  Known for its mesmerizing combination of natural marshes and Atlantic shoreline, you’ll be treated to a fantastic dolphin show along the water.  There are historic forts, a great old lighthouse and museums to entertain you when you’re not at the beach or strolling around town.

Anna Maria Island, Florida

This tiny barrier island proves that smaller is better when it comes to Florida beaches. If you like to avoid the crowds, catch a glimpse of a dolphin or manatee, dip your toes in perfect white sand, and spend your afternoons biking around town, then Anna Maria Island may become one of your favorite Florida beaches.

And there you have it – some beautiful East Coast beach towns to visit the next time you could use some fresh, salty air! Any I’m missing? Let me know in the comments!~

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Shoulder season happens twice a year. The first is that sweet spot right after the spring break rush and right before Memorial Day weekend, aka the start of summer. The second is in fall right after Labor Day weekend but before peak fall foliage.

Both are great for different reasons. Spring shoulder season means nature has come back to life and the weather is warm but not as sweltering as it’s about to get. Fall is great because kids are back in school and most people are thinking of fall travel rather than taking advantage of the last days of summer weather.

If you can swing a trip, here are some ideas of where to go!

Where to Go for Shoulder Season

Amusement Parks

Best: Fall Shoulder Season

Did you know one of the cheapest months to visit Disney World is in September? Since most amusement parks cater to families and teenagers, their busiest times tend to be starting around winter and lasting through the summer. If it isn’t families booking their trips, it’s teenagers on high school and college graduation trips during the spring shoulder season. Plus most places these days still reach summer temperatures in September even if they’re not in perpetually warm destinations like southern California or Florida.

Amusement Parks to Check Out: Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, California’s Great America, Six Flags, Hershey Park, Dollywood, Busch Gardens, Legoland

Busy National Parks

Best: Later Spring Shoulder and Fall Shoulder

There are 63 National Parks in the USA and 433 units of the National Park Service. While some are more underrated, others are insanely popular and see thousands of visitors daily, even more in the summer. The Grand Canyon alone saw around 5 million people last year!

Shoulder season is the perfect time to plan a visit. I prefer the fall one because you’re more likely to have warmer temperatures and can almost guarantee kids will be back in school. Parks that usually close during winter will have spent spring and summer thawing out, so they’ll be temperate even if you plan on hiking up high.

Spring shoulder season can be beautiful but just double check how things are looking. If you’re too early, you may even encounter winter conditions at parks in higher elevations. And on the reverse side of fall, some of the parks have spent the last few months frozen, so you’re getting those early days of thawing out.

Popular Parks to Consider: Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, Glacier, Zion, and Acadia.

Beach Vacation Destinations

Best: Fall Shoulder Season

There’s something almost magical about a beach town right after the summer rush. If you go early enough in fall, you’ll still reap the benefits of summer. Seasonal eateries and ice cream shops might still be open and the weather should be warm enough to swim in the ocean. Even if you go later, there’s nothing like sitting on the beach and losing yourself in a good book or strolling along the shoreline – without breaking a sweat. Pair that all with lower hotel rates, shops posting up their end-of-summer clearance deals, and no boardwalk crowds? Sign me up!

Where to Go: Crystal Coast, NC; Hilton Head, SC; Traverse City, MI; Nantucket, MA; Watch Hill, RI; Cape May, NJ

The Alps

Best: Fall Shoulder Season

If you’re looking to explore the Alps, you’ll definitely want to plan for the fall shoulder season. Like with higher up US National Parks, The Alps are still thawing out during the spring. You’re almost guaranteed to still encounter snow when you get up higher. Not so in the fall! This time of year typically means less rain, more temperate weather, less hikers, and long days (the sun doesn’t set until around 7:30pm). You may even get a glimpse of fall colors.. Some restaurants and tourist-driven places will be closed for the season, but those still open will be thrilled for your business.

Where to Go in the Alps: Interlaken, Switzerland; Lucerne, Switzerland; Aosota, Italy; Chambéry, France; Bressanone, Italy; Innsbruck, Austria; Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Beloved European Cities

Best: Either shoulder season

Everyone and their grandmother heads to Europe during the summer. And that includes Europeans, who, enviably, spend weeks vacationing in August. These days, however, the heat soars in many of the popular, southern European destinations. And if you know anything about most European countries, you know they don’t have central A/C. Honestly, most Europeans I’ve met don’t seem to feel humidity the way most Americans I know do! This means an 80F day in Paris is going to feel a lot worse than an 80F day at home. When you factor in crowds and the lack of ice in drinks, your Euro trip might go south real quick.

Spring and fall shoulder seasons, though? Idyllic! You’ll have great weather, locals won’t be so irritated with the influx of crowds, and I can almost guarantee hotel and tour rates will have some sort of discount. Make the trips even better by including what I like to refer to as B-side cities.

Where to Go: Rome, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; London, England; Berlin, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Prague, Czech Republic; Florence, Italy; Lisbon, Portugal

Have you ever traveled during shoulder season? Let me know about your trip below!

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Check out all my favorites below!

Side note: shoes are my suitcase nemesis, and I only ever bring three pairs and that includes the shoes I wear to travel in.   Before you totally hate me and unsubscribe from my newsletter, you should know that flip flops, flat shoes and sandals DO NOT COUNT.  These shoes are totally flat and take up little luggage real estate.

Some of the products listed below are affiliate links. I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

The Types of Travel Shoes You’ll Want

Before I get into brands and styles, I want to break down the kind of travel shoes you’ll want to pack. Sometimes a single shoe can do double duty but it’s always good to start with the type then get into specifics.

Airport/Travel Day Shoes

These are shoes you want to wear at the airport or when you know you have a long day of travel ahead of you. Some people love dressing up for the airport and while I like to look nice, I’m dressing for comfort and functionality, not to look fancy. Imagine getting stuck with layovers or an emergency situation and you’re in flimsy shoes!

Airport shoes should be comfy and easy to slip in and out of. If you like to workout on vacation, just wear your sneakers. And if you don’t like the look of most sneakers which usually come in bright colors, consider buying a pair of black, white, or neutral colors next time you’re due for a new pair.

Main Destination Shoes

Main destination shoes are the shoes you’re going to wear for the majority of your trip. You want to tailor them both to the season and the destination itself. Whether it’s a snowboot in winter or a sandal in summer, make sure the sole has a lot of cushioning to absorb the impact of walking. In fact, you may even want to look at getting custom orthopedic insoles for even better support.

Fancier Moment Shoes

These shoes are totally optional but if you’re planning on going somewhere nicer for dinner or just want a day where you’re more dressed up, bring a pair of fancier shoes. They don’t necessarily need to be heels. A nice, slimmer flat will do the job perfectly. Just make sure whatever fancier shoe you bring is still relatively comfortable because there still may be some walking involved, and you don’t want to twist your ankle on cobblestones in uncomfortable heels!

My Favorite Shoes for Travel

Now here are some specific brands and shoes I’ve loved over the years. Keep in mind none of these are sponsored and everything I’m listing are shoes I’ve worn many, many times.

Fitflops

Fitflops are by far my constant recommendation for footwear. They put so much technology into their shoes and despite the name being a play on “flip-flop,” they actually have a huge range of styles from sandals to boots to sneakers. I often wear their leather F-Mode sneakers as my airport shoes, and for the last year or so I’ve worn the F-mode gold espadrilles as my main destination shoes anywhere it was warm. I actually once left my phone at a café in Amsterdam and had to sprint 10 minutes to get it back. Those sandals did not fail me even a little bit!!

Their only downside is that I haven’t quite found a style I’d like to wear for a fancier evening out. They do have some flats and heeled sandals but I’d say they’re still on the more casual or dressy casual side.

Adidas Sambas

Adidas Sambas are great for a main destination shoe (or really an everyday shoe). As far as sneakers go they’re pretty stylish and come in just about every color and color pattern imaginable. They’re a classic that you’ll find people of all ages wearing in major cities all around the world too!

I will say if you have arch support issues or need extra comfort, they’re on the flatter side. Either get some sturdy insoles to put in them or refer back to the Fitflop sneaker options.

Allbirds Cruiser Loungers

Allbirds Cruiser Loungers are exactly what I mean when I describe the perfect airport shoe! They’re sneaker-like and they can be slipped on and off easily. Pair them with some long, loose pants, a cotton or linen top, a cardigan, and a blanket scarf. Boom – stylish, practical and comfortable!

Cole Haan Gisella Drivers

If loafers are more your style, I love how classic the Cole Haan Gisella Drivers are. Cole Haan also puts a lot of technology into their soles so these are great as main destination or airport shoes.

Rothy’s Point II

For a fancier but still practical shoe, I really loved the Rothy’s Point II flat. They just look really elegant and, as a bonus, they’re washable so if you do get them dirty no need to worry. Go with black the most classic look. The colors are fun but if you get them wet at all, it’ll show the markings until you have a chance to throw them in the washer.

You could maybe wear them as your main destination shoe if your feet are in good shape. I wore them all day while we were filming in Italy for “Places to Love.” However, they do not have a ton of support so you will feel it towards the end of the day! Save them for shorter outings and fancier dinners or events.

Any shoes you’d recommend? Let me know below!

The post Favorite Shoes for Travel appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

I’ve rounded up some of my favorites below; including many we stayed at while filming “Places to Love.”

Hotels to Stay at for a Charming Getaway

The Inn of the Five Graces in Santa Fe, NM

To this day, The Inn of the Five Graces in Santa Fe, New Mexico is still one of my favorite hotels in the world. I first came here for “Great Hotels,” and it was just so unlike any other hotel I’d ever visited. Ira and Sylvia Seret originally used the space as a showplace but enough visitors kept asking about staying over, they decided to turn it into an inn. From the wooden doors to the woven carpets to the mosaic designs, the entire hotel is handmade. Rooms feel like you’re stepping into an art piece! And this time of year means their wood-burning kiva fireplaces are open, making the rooms feel even warmer and cozier.

I even had a chance to return and chat with Ira, Sylvia, and their son, Sharif, for my “25th Anniversary Special”.

Inlet Inn in Beaufort, NC

Built in 1985, Inlet Inn has been a mainstay in historic downtown Beaufort, North Carolina for well over a century at this point. It sits right on the waterfront and has all the charm of a local bed and breakfast with the privacy of a hotel. It’s currently owned by Barbara McKenzie and Jay Tervo, who think of themselves as the caretakers rather than just owners! Stay on the first floor to have access to working fireplaces perfect for a wintry romantic escape. We stayed here while filming “The Crystal Coast of North Carolina,” and I loved how the hotel perfectly encapsulated that southern coastal feel.

Wanderstay Boutique Hotel in Houston, TX

Before I tell you anything about Wanderstay Boutique Hotel, just know these two important things: 2:00 pm check in and adults-only. Music to my ears! Not only has founder Deidre Mathis traveled to over 50 countries across 7 continents, she was also the first Black woman to own and operate a hostel in the United States. (Check out Wanderstay Houston Hostel here). Between both those experiences, I like to think she knows a thing or two about good hospitality. Located in East End Houston, there are only ten rooms, each with a unique theme. In addition to all the classic amenities you’d expect, there’s also a pillow bar and towel warmers.

The Americana Motor Hotel in Flagstaff, AZ

How many chain hotels will put a crystal ball in your room? We stayed at  The Americana Motor Hotel for two nights while taking a break from filming our “Route 66: Arizona” episode, and what a perfectly on theme place to rest! The hotel dates back to 1962 and even back then had a “Jetsons meet Easy Rider” design. These days the rooms still have that retro-futurism feel with a dash of astronomy mixed in. My whole crew loved hanging out here!

Glen Oaks in Big Sur, CA

Imagine getting to buy a property you grew up working at. Basil Sanborn’s grandparents moved to Big Sur in the 1950s, and he grew up next to Glen Oaks at Ripplewood Resort, which his parents operated. As a teen, he did all sorts of odd jobs for both places whether it was cleaning rooms or waiting tables. Fast forward to 2006 when the owner was ready to sell Glen Oaks, Basil and his wife, Tracy, decided to buy it and turn it from a barebones budget establishment into something elevated yet still affordable. The redesign was inspired by midcentury design with a lot of green, rustic initiatives. Choose between their updated 1950s adobe motor lodge rooms, historic oak tree cottages, or redwood grove cabins. If you want some real privacy, opt for the Big Sur River Reserve. You can only get to one of these two deluxe cabins by crossing a 150ft walking bridge!

La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ

If you continue on Route 66 in Arizona, you’ll eventually come to the small town of Winslow. It’s probably most known for The Eagles song, “Take it Easy,” but it’s also home to historic La Posada Hotel. Not only is La Posada the last of Fred Harvey’s great railroad hotels, it’s also Mary E.J. Colter’s crowning architectural achievement. She was one of the few female architects working during the 1920s and 30s, and her other famous work is the Desert View Watchtower in the Grand Canyon. Allan Affeldt and Tina Mion bought the hotel in order to preserve the architecture and have been running it for over 25 years. Don’t miss dining in their onsite restaurant, The Turquoise Room. And as you wander around the hotel, check out Tina’s various art pieces. There’s a whole gallery you can enjoy on the second floor.

The Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge in New Orleans, LA

When you stay at The Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge in New Orleans, not only are you staying in a piece of history, you’ve got a front row to live music! The hotel goes all the way back to 1939 when barber Frank Painia first opened a barbershop and restaurant on the first floor. It soon also included the hotel and a nightclub, and during its heyday, it saw some of the most iconic Black musicians of the 50s and 60s. It’s been recently re-opened to its former, historic glory. All rooms are themed after musicians who left their mark here, and you can expect plenty of fun events in the main area. Just imagine strolling out to your balcony and catching a show!

The Southern Hotel in Covington, LA

Across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, Covington is a small town charmer where you can come to unwind in quieter, calmer territory. And in Covington is the beautiful Mission-style Southern Hotel. The hotel dates all the way back to 1907, though it took on many different forms over the 20th century including becoming FEMA housing. Local preservationist, Lisa Conrey Ward, purchased it in 2011 and restored it to its former hotel status. Rooms have this beautiful airy feel, and I personally love that all the interiors are nods to the hotel’s community past. The murals of historic Covington in the Cypress Bar are particular highlights.

The Alander Hotel in the Berkshires of New York

Right at the foothills of the Berkshires in Upstate New York, The Alander Hotel was once an old road side hotel! It’s been recently renovated to be a stylish boutique lodge thanks to owners Jason Seiler and Reid Kendall. Both have had long careers in the hospitality industry and after 15 years together, decided to open their own space in Columbia County. The hotel mixes mountain cabin aesthetics with modern design and sources all amenities locally. Plus they have an onsite restaurant called North Star which features seasonal menus and ingredients from Hudson Valley. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly!

Mrs. Rose’s Bed and Breakfast in Cajun Country, LA

Nowhere fully embodies the spirit of hospitality like Louisiana Cajun Country! If you choose to come here for your getaway, you have to include a crawfish boil and nowhere is more fun to do that at than Mrs. Roses’s Bed and Breakfast. Located in Caplan, it’s a cozy bed and breakfast that feels more like you’re staying over someone’s house. They’re also the only place in the region and likely all of Louisiana that offers crawfish excursions. Head out on a boat ride to where you can catch crawfish the old fashioned way and then come back and enjoy a Cajun-style boil.

Wilson Ranches Retreat from Oregon RV Trip

Why not spend your romantic getaway on a working ranch? The Wilson family came to Oregon on the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s and Wilson Ranches Retreat in Butte Creek Valley has been in their family since the 1960s. Meeting Kara Wilson was actually what inspired the entire premise of “Places to Love”! You can stay over in their historic 1910 Sears Roebuck Ranch House, which has six ranch-style guest rooms and a cozy living and dining area. Nothing screams romantic like a nice horse ride at sunset.

Bel Air Motel in Wildwood, NJ

Did you know Wildwood on the Jersey Shore has a huge collection of Doo Wop architecture? I got to learn more about this mid-century futuristic design at Motel Safari along Route 66 in New Mexico, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for it. There’s a huge concentration of these motels in the Doo Wop Motel District, but if I had to choose one it’d be the Bel Air Motel. Bonus: their pool is heated!

Where would you head for a last minute, romantic getaway? Let me know below!

The post Charming Hotels to Plan a Romantic Getaway appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Check below for every single place I’ve been in the US so far!

Everywhere I’ve Eaten for “Places to Love”: USA Edition

Williamsburg, Virginia

Masala Craft

What would you say if I told you some of the best Indian food I’ve had is right in Williamsburg, Virginia? Masala Craft is a true labor of love between parents Avinash and Neeta Arora and their daughter, Shaveta. The family came from Punjab fifteen years ago, bringing with them generations’ worth of knowledge when it comes to Indian cuisine. The menu consists of some truly mouthwatering dishes made with spices roasted straight from their herb garden.

For more of Williamsburg, VA, keep an eye out for our upcoming episode!

Route 66: California

The Formosa Café

If you love the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood, you’re going to love The Formosa Café. This was THE spot for all the classic movie stars to come and blow off some steam. Choose from a slew of Chinese dishes, and give yourself time to take in all the decor. It’s like a mini-museum of Tinseltown lore!

Mel’s Drive In

Another Hollywood gem is Mel’s Drive-In. Its Santa Monica location is one of the four official ends for Historic Route 66 and as the name suggests, it serves up all the best of American diner food.

See more of Route 66: California here

Route 66: Arizona

The Snow Cap Café

While driving through Seligman in Arizona, you don’t want to miss two places. The first is Angel and Vilma’s Original Route 66 Gift Shop. There you’ll get to see the barbershop of Angel Delgadillo, a man credited with saving Route 66 in Arizona. (You might even get to see him!) The second is right next door at The Snow Cap Café, founded by Angel’s late brother, Juan. The whole café was built using mostly scrap lumber and is a roadside attraction in and of itself! Grab a burger with a side of jokes and enjoy a spot that truly embodies the best of Mother Road.

See more of Route 66: Arizona here

Route 66: New Mexico

Earl’s Family Restaurant

Right by the Arizona – New Mexico border sits Earl’s Family Restaurant. They’ve been in business for over 75 years and have an incredible mix of American, Native, and Mexican cuisine. Just a warning – if you get the navajo taco, plan to split it with at least one other person or come very hungry!

See more of Route 66: New Mexico here

Route 66: Oklahoma – Texas

Midpoint Café

At exactly halfway on Route 66, is Midpoint Café in Adrian. It’s been around since the 1950s and the homemade pies alone are worth the stop.

The Big Texan

The Big Texan might just be the most famous steakhouse in Texas, which is saying a lot! It takes its name very seriously which means it can seat something like 452 people at once. During peak season, they see as many as 3,000+ visitors. Their big claim to fame, though, is their 72-oz steak challenge. One person has one hour to eat a 72-oz steak, shrimp cocktail, baked potato salad, and a roll with butter!

Sid’s Diner

When it comes to Oklahoma, the one thing I was most excited to try was an onion burger, sometimes known as the depression burger. Back during the Great Depression, meat was expensive so many spots stretched their ingredients by smashing thinly sliced onions on top. I got my fix at Sid’s Diner in El Reno, which was founded by Marty Hall back in 1990 and has been a mainstay on Route 66 since.

See more of Route 66: Oklahoma – Texas here

Route 66: Missouri – Oklahoma

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Summer in St. Louis? Cool off with a concrete shake from Ted Drewes Frozen Custard! This walk-up, window-only spot has been here since 1930, and is still in the family four generations later. I’m not kidding when I say their shakes are like concrete. You can quite literally turn your cup upside down and it won’t move.

Uranus Fudge Factory

Uranus Fudge Factory has to be the most quintessential Route 66 roadside attraction ever. Choose from 18 different fudge flavors and be prepared for some intense potty humor!

See more of Route 66: Missouri – Oklahoma here

The Black Hills of South Dakota

Wall Drug Store

I just love the genius behind Wall Drug Store. Back in the day when Ted and Dorothy Hustead founded the business, they got people to come in by advertising free ice water all up and down the highway. These days it’s still part of the Hustead family but the store itself has expanded so much you need a map just to get around. One tradition I love that they keep was free coffee and donuts to all veterans.

Palmer Gulch

Nothing says South Dakota classic like a Chuck Wagon Dinner. At Palmer Gulch, everything from the coffee to the fried potatoes to the steaks are cooked over an open fire. It’s about as close to an authentic cowboy dinner as you can get.

See more of The Black Hills of South Dakota here

Traverse City, Michigan

Cherry Republic

Traverse City is known for its cherries so naturally I had to visit Cherry Republic. Founder Bob Sutherland started the business over 25 years ago selling T-shirts from the trunk of his car and has since expanded to over 275+ cherry products. My favorite? The cherry soft serve ice cream, of course.

Farm Club Restaurant

It’s easy to create a farm-to-table menu in Traverse thanks to the plethora of farms all around the region. I loved sitting down at Farm Club Restaurant where 70-80% of its ingredients come from nearby Loma Farm. Because of this, they can get creative with the menu and utilize ingredients that might normally get scrapped.

Leelanau Cheese

You don’t need to travel all the way to the Swiss Alps in winter to enjoy incredible raclette cheese. Just pop over to Leelanau Cheese. They’ve been perfecting their cave-aging method for over 25 years.

See more of Traverse City, Michigan here

Crystal Coast, North Carolina

Oyster Carolina

You know Ryan Bethea is passionate about oysters because he somehow managed to balance teaching middle school with a return to school to study oyster aquaculture, an externship, and oyster farming until he could buy his own oyster farm. Now with Oyster Carolina, he serves up the saltiest oysters in the country and delivers them all around North Carolina for free. It’s all part of his belief that everyone in the state deserves access to healthy seafood.

Oceanana Pier House

A mainstay on the Crystal Coast’s Atlantic Beach since 1959, Oceanana Pier House is a seafood lover’s dream. Come for Chef Kevin Davis’s seafood boil and thank me later.

See more of The Crystal Coast of North Carolina here

New Orleans, Louisiana

Café Du Monde

Café du Monde is a New Orleans classic in the truest sense of the word. The beignets themselves were brought to the area by Acadians, predecessors to Louisiana’s Cajun culture. The café itself was founded by Fred Koeniger, who came up with the idea of serving beignets with his coffee. And when he wanted to retire, he wound up selling it to Honduran immigrant Hubert Fernandez, whose family still owns and runs the iconic café to this day.

Hansen’s Sno-Blitz

It does snow in Louisiana! Kind of. At least it does at Hansen’s Sno-Blitz. This is another NOLA institution that is still family owned and operated over 85 years later. Ashley Hansen’s grandparents founded the shop in 1939, and she still makes the snowcones with syrups freshly made with Louisiana king sugar every day.

Café Reconcile

Café Reconcile is a restaurant with a mission. And that mission, besides making flavor-forward meals from scratch, is to support anyone from the ages of 16-24 in both personal and workforce development. Interns here learn all sorts of skills to help give them a leg up in whichever industry they choose, and 100% of the profits go towards their stipends.

Parkway Bakery and Tavern

What’s a trip to New Orleans without eating a po’ boy? The sandwich got its start when Martin Brothers Coffee created a “poor boy” sandwich to support railway employees on strike in 1929. Martin Brothers no longer exists but Parkway Bakery and Tavern continues the tradition and will still serve free po’ boys to strikers!

See more of New Orleans, LA here

Route 66: Illinois

Polk-A-Dot Drive In

I’ve experienced some excellent drive-ins on Route 66, and it all started with Polk-A-Dot Drive In in Braidwood. It’s a classic, family-owned 50’s diner with all the delicious grub you could want after a long drive!

Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup

Did you know Illinois is the furthest south and west  where you can make maple sirup? I stopped into Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup to sample some! The shop goes all the way back to 1891 when Arthur Funk opened up the first official commercial farm after his family had been making maple sirup for years. It’s still in the family to this day.

Cozy Dog Drive In

Another drive-in must-stop in Illinois? The Cozy Dog Drive In! It is not a corn dog. Cozy dogs are dipped in freshly made batter, not that frozen stuff. And they still use the same recipe founder Ed Waldmire developed over 75 years ago. Get it with a side of homemade chili, which is also made with a chili spice he developed.

See more of Route 66: Illinois here

New Hampshire Seacoast

Cup Of Joe

I love being from the New Hampshire Seacoast, and a spot like Cup of Joe Café and Bar is the perfect example of why! Not only is the café a great spot to meet up with friends and grab a bite, its owner is none other than Portsmouth’s assistant mayor, Joanna Kelley. Her main goal has always been to foster a community space and that even extends to her employees.

Hong Asian Noodle Bar

Hong Asian Noodle Bar began somewhat unexpectedly during the pandemic when three friends, Joey Lin, Tin Zhang, and Vivian Lin were laid off from their restaurant jobs. They got together to learn all the authentic ways to cook the cuisine they wanted to serve and then bought the property to open their dream restaurant. These days it’s become a Dover favorite!

See more of The New Hampshire Seacoast here

Portland, Oregon

Café Zamora

When Hector Meija Zamora founded Café Zamora, he didn’t just want to make good coffee. He wanted to build something that would create a community not only in Portland but in his home country of Guatemala. The farm where he gets his beans is actually a small coop with 40 small coffee farmers and working together even extends to building a school, two mills, and a clinic.

Lil’ America

Eat around the world at Lil’ America! They’re a BIPOC and queer collective of food carts with cuisine from a variety of cultures. You can find them by Fracture Brewing Taproom.

See more of Portland, Oregon here

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Uncle Larry’s Restaurant

Uncle Larry’s Restaurant serves up fish so good it’ll smack ya! The whole restaurant started when Larry Torrence was just a kid cooking in the kitchen with his mother. That turned into fish frying as a pre-teen and after many years of family fish fries, he opened up this restaurant in 2013. It’s been a Chattanooga favorite since!

See more of Chattanooga, Tennessee here

California Road Trip

¡Salud Tacos!

No visit to San Diego’s Barrio Logan would be complete without tacos! I went to Salud Tacos for my taco fix. They put a Chicano twist on theirs.

Mom’s Pie House

The town of Julian is known for its apples (seriously, there’s a festival each year), and Mom’s Pie House has been serving up some of the best apple pie ever since 1984. Founder Anita Nichols reckons she can make up to 600 pies in just one day. I can’t believe she started this whole thing when she was raising four kids!

Old Town Spice & Tea

You know me and tea. Old Town Spice & Tea is in Temecula’s Old Town and will feel like stepping back into the Old West. Get ready, you’ll have over 350 spices and 100 loose-leaf tears to peruse!

The Pines Tavern

Right on Big Bear Lake, The Pines Tavern combines beautiful views with an authentically traditional Santa Maria barbecue.

See more of my California Road Trip here

Savannah, Georgia

Big Bon Bondega

Big Bon was already known around Savannah for its pizza when they added bagels to the mix. Really, its founder, Korean-American Veteran Kay Heritage, just wanted somewhere to get a decent bagel! She opened Big Bon Bodega in the Starland District to serve up Montreal-style bagels during the day and pizza in the evenings. One thing I love about her style is that beyond food, she operates under an open-book policy. All employees can see the company’s finances. Kay does this not only for transparency’s sake but so she can encourage entrepreneurship and communication.

The Wyld Dock Bar

There’s nothing quite like an old-fashioned oyster roast, and when it comes to Savannah, you just have to go to The Wyld Dock Bar. Keep an eye on their Instagram for upcoming roasts.

See more of Savannah, Georgia here

Big Sky, Montana

The Rocks Tasting Room

The Rocks Tasting Room does two things perfectly for any skiers in Big Sky. They offer up good food and good booze. Just try their pho with a side of Montana mule!

Horn & Cantle Saloon

Cozy up at Horn & Cantle Saloon, Lone Mountain Ranch’s onsite restaurant. You’ll get a cozy experience with excellent live music.

See more of Big Sky, Montana here

St. Augustine, Florida

Llama Restaurant

At Llama Restaurant, Chef Marcel Vizcarra works with his mother to put an experimental twist on the dishes he grew up with in his home country of Peru. Bonus? Vegetarians will love that they have an entirely separate menu just for them!

Asado Life

With Urban Asado, founder Nick Carrera seeks to create an experience just like the asados his father brought with him from Argentina. He started out just learning to make asado grills. That turned into a business run from his garage, which turned into demonstrations and pop-ups, which then turned into weekly celebrations, which then turned into his restaurant, Asado Life!

See more of St. Augustine, Florida here

Madison, Wisconsin

Tornado Steak House

When it comes to Wisconsin, a supper club experience is a must. They’re the unfussy version of a country club dinner where being able to meet others is just as important as the food and drink itself. I went to Tornado Steak House for my supper club experience.

Fromagination

I mean… I couldn’t go to Wisconsin and not visit somewhere focused on cheese. Fromagination takes advantage of the state’s cheesy reputation to offer up the perfect combinations for your charcuterie board. Time your visit with one of their classes.

National Mustard Museum

Right outside of Madison, the National Mustard Museum celebrates all things, well, mustard! Chief Mustard Officer, Barry Levenson, has been growing his collection since the eighties and opened this museum in 1992. His goal is to share everything he’s learned about his favorite condiment and just inject some much needed silliness into the world.

See more of Madison, Wisconsin here

Cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska

Gold Creek Salmon Bake

When in Alaska, why not attend a salmon bake? Wild salmon cooked over an open fire… sign me up! We did ours with Alaska Travel Adventures.

See more of the Inside Passage of Alaska here

Boston, Massachusetts

Union Oyster House

Not only will you be dining in America’s oldest restaurant at Union Oyster House, you’ll be dining where some of the country’s most famous public figures once came. John F. Kennedy even had his own favorite booth here!

Bricco Salumeria

Boston’s North End neighborhood is known for its Italian culture, and Bricco Salumeria specifically is dedicated to founder Frank DePasquale’s childhood along the Amalfi Coast. Get a sandwich and stay for the fresh mozzarella demonstration.

Blossom Bar & Sichuan Garden

Blossom Bar & Sichuan Garden are the perfect representation of America’s melting pot nature. The Duan family first moved to the States in the nineties so Xiaoyi Duan could pursue a career in opera. Soon after they opened up Sichuan Garden to serve up authentic food from home, and it became a favorite neighborhood spot. Later their son, Ran Duan, convinced his father to let him open up Blossom Bar on the restaurant’s upper level. Ran had already built a career as a cocktail expert and his focus with the bar is Latin-American influenced cocktails.

See more of Boston, Massachusetts here

San Antonio, Texas

Carnitas Lonja

Come to the no-frills Carnitas Lonja for one thing and one thing only – carnitas. Chef Alejandro Paredes has perfected the process of creating soft and savory pulled pork!

Pharm Table

The mission with Pharm Table according to San Antonio native, Chef Elizabeth Johnson, is to treat food as medicine. This means supporting small, local businesses to keep a circular economy while creating plant-forward dishes that heal the body. Whatever you do, try the collard greens.

See more of San Antonio, Texas here

Louisville, Kentucky

Bourbons Bistro

And to round out my bourbon experience in Kentucky is Bourbons Bistro! This bar features 130 bourbons and is set in a historic building in Louisville’s Clifton neighborhood. Pair your bourbon with a seasonal menu designed to compliment whatever you’re drinking.

See more of Louisville, Kentucky here

Houston, Texas

Kenny and Ziggy’s

Kenny and Ziggy’s is what happens when you combine the Jewish delis of New York City with the “everything’s bigger in Texas” mentality. Founder Ziggy Grubler moved to Houston from NYC over two decades ago but even before that he comes from a long line of deli owners starting with his grandfather, Max Gruber, who immigrated to the US from Budapest in the early 1900s. Everything is really is bigger at Kenny and Ziggy’s; just ask about their skyscraper-sized sandwiches.

Blood Bros BBQ

Robin Wong, Terry Wong, and Quy Hoang kind of, accidentally opened up a super successful BBQ joint in Houston. What started out as casual backyard BBQs with friends turned into pop-ups around the city. When they developed a cult following begging for more consistent access to their menu, they opened up Blood Bros BBQ. The menu has all the Texas classics with an Asian twist. Wear stretchy pants!

See more of Houston, Texas here

The Jersey Shore

Beach Plum Farm Kitchen

While most people flock to, well, the shore when they visit the Jersey Shore, there’s a plethora of beautiful places if you just got a bit inland. Beach Plum Farm is one of them. It’s been a working farm since the 1600s and focuses heavily on regenerative agricultural practices. The whole farm feels idyllic! Stay overnight or grab a bite at their Farm Kitchen restaurant.

See more of the Jersey Shore and More here

Asheville, North Carolina

Chai Pani

There’s a good reason why Chai Pani won a James Beard award and is often at the top of most Asheville eatery lists. Chef Meherwan Irani pulls on his unique background growing up in England and India to introduce Americans to Indian street food. He mixes familiar and unfamiliar for some truly delicious dishes, Just try the okra!

See more of Asheville, North Carolina here

Dutchess County, New York

McEnroe Organic Farm

One of Hudson Valley’s most iconic farms is McEnroe Organic Farm. It’s actually the largest and most diversified farm in the entire state. Once a dairy farm, Ray McEnroe turned his attention to organic produce in the eighties. It’s such a great place to come and wander around before picking up some fresh, seasonal produce. Autumn is particularly amazing with all the apple picking.

Harney & Sons

When it comes to tea, Harney & Sons has done a masterful job at creating a heritage brand in only a few decades. Their headquarters are in the small town of Millerton, and you can get lunch here before perusing their massive selection.

Considering Dutchess County is home to the Culinary Institute of America, it’s no surprise there are a lot of fantastic restaurants. I particularly loved La Cabiñita in Poughkeepsie. The focus is on Oaxacan cuisine and owner, Chef Vicky Pinelo pulls from her grandmother’s recipes.

See more of Dutchess County, New York here

Coastal Maine

Flo’s Hot Dogs

A spot near and dear to my heart. I’ve been eating at Flo’s Hot Dogs since I was a kid, and I even had them at my wedding! They’ve been in business since 1959 and are known for their steamed hot dogs. The key ingredient is Flo’s secret relish.

Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier

What’s a trip to Coastal Maine without lobster? I loved Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier! The pier has been in the Spinney family since the 1930s and has become a generational tradition for some. Easy, no frills – they provide the lobster, and you bring whatever else you want for your dinner.

See more of Coastal Maine here

Corning & the Southern Finger Lakes

Old World Café

Right in Corning’s Gaffer District, Old World Café is a charming spot for that perfect small town vibe. Jennifer Herman has owned the café with her husband for two decades now and the focus is on classic homemade soups, sandwiches, paninis, and salads.

See more of Corning & the Southern Finger Lakes here

Phoenix, Arizona

The Farm at South Mountain

Arizona’s dry climate doesn’t exactly make you think of farmland but The Farm at South Mountain is special. It’s become a foodie destination over the last decade as the organic gardens and farm support three restaurants! I was there for dinner to enjoy Phoenix’s take on a farm-to-table experience at Quiessence.

When Martha Castillo started making tamales, she mostly wanted to connect with her childhood in Mexico City. Eventually it turned into an obsession that had her perfecting the craft and selling at farmer’s markets until she was able to open The Tamale Store in 2008. She now runs the store with her children with a family first mentality. And, let’s just say, those tamales are very popular in Phoenix!

See more of Phoenix, Arizona here

Lakes and Mountains of New Hampshire

Local Eatery

As the name suggests, Local Eatery is all about keeping things fresh and local. They work with select farms to craft the freshest menus. Even the meat comes from their own butcher shop!

Chutter’s

World’s longest candy counter – need I say more? If you love candy, just come and check out Chutter’s selection. It spans 112 feet! Oh, and the homemade fudge is sheer perfection!

See more of the Lakes and Mountains of New Hampshire here

Dallas, Texas

Pecan Lodge

Pecan Lodge is so good, sometimes there’s a line around the block as early as 10:30 am. That’s because even though they’re smoking meat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they still manage to sell out early.

Dude, Sweet Chocolate

At Dude, Sweet Chocolate, artisan chocolates come with a side of fun and adventure. Founder and chocolatier, Katherine Clapner, treats her kitchen like a playground to try out different concoctions. Get ready to sample all sorts of intriguing mixes.

The Wild Detectives

The Wild Detectives combines a bookstore, a coffee shop, and a cocktail bar all in one location. It’s a story of friendship between Spanish civil engineers Javier García del Moral and Paco Vique who always wanted to mix their two passions in life – books and booze. Despite knowing very little about running a bookstore, a coffee shop, or a bar, they opened in 2014 and have been quite successful since!

Purépecha

If you visit Revolver Taco Lounge and continue through a narrow passage, you’ll soon find yourself in Purépecha. Chef Regina Roja created this 8-course journey through traditional Mexican dishes with his mother, Juanita. He designed it to feel as though you’re visiting his home for dinner. The small restaurant only seats 14 people and there are no menus.

See more of Dallas, Texas here

Sonoma County, California

The Achadinha Cheese Company

When it comes to cheese, Achadinha Cheese Company is all about farmstead quality. This means the entire process of cheese-making is done on their property from raising cows and goats to processing and cutting themselves. Join for one of their farm tours or cheesemaking classes.

See more of Sonoma County, California here

Florida Keys

El Siboney

With such close proximity to Cuba, it only makes sense to try some Cuban cuisine (and coffee!) in Key West. El Siboney is all about offering authentic dishes at budget conscious prices and their menu is positively mouthwatering. The roast pork alone!

Sparky’s Landing

Save the ecosystem by ordering lionfish when you see it on the menu at Sparky’s Landing or really anywhere in Florida! It’s an invasive species that preys on far too many domestic fish. Sparky’s is an open-air restaurant in Marathon and perfect to take advantage of the Keys’ tropical weather.

The Blonde Giraffe

No visit to the Florida Keys is complete without sampling some key lime pie! The very best can be found at The Blond Giraffe. Founder Tania Beguinati used her grandmother’s Brazilian recipe to win the title in 1999 and is still winning awards years later. Eat your pie in their garden right behind the shop!

See more of Florida Keys and Key West here

Greater Palm Springs, California

Shields Date Farm

Enjoy everything dates at Shields Date Farm. For well over a century, they’ve been educating the public about dates and that includes eating them! Shop around all the different products and then sit down at their 1960s shake counter to order up a date shake.

See more of Greater Palm Springs, California here

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Tia Sophia’s

Tia Sophia’s has been THE place for breakfast in Santa Fe since the 1970s. With a mix of Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, this is actually where the term “Christmas” in reference to ordering both green and red chiles was coined.

Tomasita’s

For some of the best northern New Mexican cuisine, look no further than Tomasita’s. Owner Georgia Maryol’s parents immigrated to Albuquerque, so she grew up around dishes wholly unlike what she would have in Greece. On a fluke over 50 years ago, she visited a café and had some of the best bean burrito she’d had in a while. The chef in question? A woman by the name of Tomasita Leyba. Georgia fell in love with Tomasita’s cooking and when she discovered the café’s owner could no longer run the café, she offered to incur his debts and take over ownership. From there she and Tomasita developed a beautiful partnership until Tomasita’s passing, and today the restaurant runs in her honor. Get the enchiladas Christmas style!

Cowgirl BBQ

Did someone say margarita trail? Yes, there is one! But if you don’t want to traverse it, just head to Cowgirl BBQ where you can embrace your inner cowgirl and choose from 40 different tequilas!

See more of Santa Fe, New Mexico here

Lafayette and Cajun Country, Louisiana

Mrs. Rose’s Bed and Breakfast

When it comes to Cajun Country, nothing beats a crawfish boil. Join a crawfish excursion at Mrs. Rose’s Bed and Breakfast (you don’t need to be a guest). Not only will you go out to one of their crawfish ponds, you’ll have it boiled and served to you under their pavilion. Five pounds per person!

Tabasco

Did you know Tabasco was headquartered on Avery Island in Louisiana? Me neither! The company’s history goes all the way back to the 1860s when Edmund McIlhenny was given some Capsicum frutescens peppers. He planted them on Avery Island and then soon developed Tabasco’s Original Red Pepper Sauce recipe! These days you can do a factory tour of their headquarters.

See more of Lafayette and Cajun Country, Louisiana here

Naples and the Paradise Coast, Florida

Grouper and Chips

Grouper and Chips continues my belief that some of the best food is tucked away in unassuming strip malls and shopping centers. Owner Pam Pishner developed the recipe for her fried grouper sandwich years ago and has been named Southwest Florida’s #1 spot for it. Not only is the sandwich delicious, the service here is personal and friendly.

See more of Naples and Paradise Coast, Florida here

Baltimore, Maryland

The R House

Once an auto body shop, The R House is now a food hall and community space. There are eleven different food businesses topped off with one massive bar! Right now you can find everything from Egyptian street food to Korean BBQ.

See more of Baltimore, Maryland here

Charleston, South Carolina

Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ

Can’t go to the south without getting BBQ and James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Rodney Scott knows his way around a grill. His family is a legend in the BBQ space, and he opened his namesake joint in Charleston back in 2016.

Chef Forrest Parker of Revival isn’t just a chef but a food archeologist. He crafts his menu to tell the story of South Carolina’s history from the Spanish to the English to the West Africans and the French in a modern, relaxed space.

See more of Charleston, South Carolina here

Houston, Texas

Phoenicia Specialty Foods

Phoenicia Specialty Foods started all the way back in the 1980s when Armenian couple Arpi and Zohrab Tcholakian opened up Mediterranean-style Phoenicia Deli. They soon expanded to house their imported goods and once customers started going directly to the store, they transformed into a gourmet grocery store with over 55,000 square feet of imported ingredients from 50 different countries. Come hungry!

Xochi

While Hugo’s is known for showcasing all the diverse foods of Mexico, Xochi is Chef Hugo Ortega’s love letter to his Oaxacan cuisine specifically. A particular treat is the mole tasting menu.

See more of Houston, Texas here

Brooklyn, New York

Smorgasburg Festival

Come April, Prospect Park in Brooklyn is alive every Sunday with Smorgasburg, a massive open air food market with over 100 vendors offering cuisine from around the world. It’s a great way to try some classics as well as some more experimental products. When I went for the show, I tried something called raindrop cakes!

Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain

Once a thriving neighborhood apothecary, Brooklyn Farmacy was closed for years until sibling duo Gia Giasullo and Peter Freeman decided to bring back the soda fountain in 2010. They’ve designed it to feel like a vintage soda shop, and you’ll be able to find everything from malts to sundaes to sandwiches.

See more of Brooklyn, New York here

Huntsville, Alabama

G’s Country Kitchen

G’s Country Kitchen is another strip mall gem of many I’ve discovered on my travels. Greta Russell founded the restaurant in 1996 and serves up her family’s heirloom soul food recipes. Do not come in a rush! Much of the food is made to order and it is so worth the wait.

See more of Huntsville, Alabama here

Texas Hill Country

Otto’s German Bistro

The town of Fredericksburg in Texas Hill Country was founded by German immigrants in the 1840s and to this day still pays homage to its roots. No place better exemplifies that than Otto’s German Bistro. Think traditional German dishes made with local ingredients!

Naegelin’s Bakery

As the oldest bakery in the state of Texas, Naegelin’s Bakery has been serving up fresh baked goods of massive proportions for over 150 years. While the Granzin family owns the bakery now, they still use the Naegelin family’s recipes. Don’t miss the apple strudel; it’s made from scratch daily!

See more of Texas Hill Country here

Monterey & Big Sur, California

Pezzini Farms

Fun fact: Pezzini Farms in Castroville is the “Artichoke Capital of the World.” The Pezzini family carried a root all the way to California from Italy in 1929 and turned it into an artichoke farm. Nearly a century later, the farm is still with the Pezzinis, and their retail shop sells everything artichoke from sauces to chips to cupcakes.

The Penny Ice Creamery

The ice cream at The Penny is a mix of fresh, local ingredients and one of the smallest dairy manufacturing plants in California. All their artisanal flavors are seasonal and absolutely delicious.

See more of Monterey & Big Sur, California here

Orange County, California

Thành Mỹ Restaurant

Located in the heart of Little Saigon, Thành Mỹ Restaurant is both a restaurant and a meeting space for the local Vietnamese population. Come for the authentic Vietnamese cuisine and stay for the community.

See more of Orange County, California here

Oregon RV Trip

Kiyowaka Orchard

My favorite stop on Mt. Hood’s Fruit Loop had to be Kiyokawa Orchard. Currently run by Randy Kiyokawa, the orchard’s story goes all the way back to 1905 when his grandfather emigrated from Japan and later began farming in Hood River. Later Randy’s parents, Mamoru and Michiko, met at an internment camp before coming back to Hood River Valley and purchasing a 25-acre orchard. These days the farm has 120 varieties of apples, pears, and Asian pears! Come to pick fresh fruit and enjoy a hay ride or a picnic.

See more of Oregon RV Trip here

In Memoriam

Just a nod to all the restaurants I had a chance to visit but are no longer in business for one reason or another:

• Sweet Buns Catering in Big Sky
• Lucky Dumpling in Colorado Springs
• White Rhino Bar & Patio in Houston
• Boriken Restaurant in Genesee River Valley
• Essie’s Restaurant in Dutchess County
• Ember Restaurant in Miami
• The Bread Box Bakery in Coastal Maine
• Betty Kay Bakeshop in the Finger Lakes
• The Breadfruit + Rum Bar in Phoenix
• Bon Gout BBQ in Miami
• Ida B’s Table in Baltimore
• The Haute Enchilada in Monterey (open for Airbnb, but no longer a restaurant)
• Anaheim Brewery in Orange County

Have you ever been to a restaurant featured on “Places to Love”? Let me know below!

The post “Places to Love” Restaurant Guide: USA Edition appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Here are just some places I’d plan an adult-friendly spring break trip!

9 Spring Break Ideas for Adults

Texas Hill Country for a Rural Escape

There are a ton of reasons I loved planning a trip to Texas Hill Country for “Places to Love,” but my number one reason was to see its famous bluebonnets. Every spring, Texas fills up with these beautiful flowers that, despite the name, come in more than just blue. It’s truly a sight to behold. Time your spring break with a road trip around Hill Country, and you’ll be able to see them in full bloom. Just be careful – you can’t just hop off and trespass on private property! Instead plan a stop somewhere like Wildseed Farms to safely enjoy. You can also visit the town of Ennis for their Bluebonnet Festival. Their trail is also open all of April.

And as a bonus for any American history buffs – you can visit the LBJ Ranch for all things Lyndon B. and Lady Bird Johnson as well as the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Costa Rica for a Tropical Break

Get tropical in beautiful Costa Rica! It’s still dry season, which means you won’t have to worry too much about rain dampening your trip. If you’re worried about the beaches and resorts filling up with students and families, head inland and north for a quieter, greener adventure. Stay at the eco-friendly, gorgeous Hideaway Rio Celeste to really feel like you’re tucked away in the jungle. Their rooms are individual bungalows! Then check out Onca Tours for an adrenaline rush. I highly recommend their night time wildlife trek and tubing tours.

Tampa, Florida for a Fun Escape

If you do want to dip your toe back into the nightlife scene without committing to it wholly for your trip, might I suggest Tampa? I know, I know, compared to other places in Florida, Tampa falls much lower on the list of fun, party destinations. But that’s where you’re mistaken. This city knows how to have fun! Historic Ybor City (a neighborhood despite the name), feels like a less chaotic version of Bourbon Street and is full of cigar bars and dance clubs. Don’t be surprised if you come across some free roamin’ chickens when you visit either. Stay at Hotel Haya to be right around the corner from all the fun. If you time it right, you’ll also be able to stay during one of their chicken yoga classes. Yes, you read that correctly. Chicken yoga!

When you need a breather from the party, hop on their free trolleys and head downtown to Tampa’s gorgeous Riverwalk. Or drive over to Mobbly Bayou Nature Preserve for some peaceful kayak fishing with the Tampa Bay Kayak Anglers. And if you’re here on a Sunday, do NOT miss the Thai Market!

Lisbon, Portugal for a European Break

Want to cross the pond for spring break? Check out Lisbon! It’s a fairly short flight from the East Coast (comparable to flying to the West Coast) and is perfect for anyone itching to get themselves to Europe. The city itself is beautiful with pastel facades, a huge coastal area, and incredibly walkable – albeit uphill – streets. Board one of its famous yellow trams to enjoy the views and eat as many patel de natas as your heart desires. When you want to get out of the city, head out to beautiful Sintra with its even more beautiful castle!

Oh, and did I mention, the weather tends to be sunny and in the sixties? A practical dream after surviving this persistent sub-freezing winter!

Big Sky, Montana for a Wintry Getaway

On the flipside, if you can’t get enough of winter and want even more snow, plan a spring break to Big Sky, Montana. Fun fact: we filmed our “Places to Love” episode in March, so all that snowy footage you see is from the start of spring. Ski season here lasts until mid-April, and you’ll have 6,000 acres to choose from!

Spend your days on the slopes or get into the water for some fly fishing. When you do need a break to warm-up, check out The Rocks Tasting Room for a cozy bowl of authentic pho and a Montana mule. You can also explore Museum of the Rockies for the largest dinosaur collection in North America.

Williamsburg & the Historic Triangle, Virginia for a Historic Adventure

Are you and your friends certified history buffs? This is THE year to head to Virginia’s Historic Triangle! Base yourself at the Williamsburg Inn, which sits in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg. Once you check in, you can walk right into town and see just how dedicated this place is to showcasing everything you would’ve seen during the 1700s.

During your stay, visit the other two spots that make up this triangle – Jamestown and Yorktown. Jamestown was home to the first permanent English settlement in America and before that, the land belonged to the Powhatan tribe. Check out Historic Jamestowne to learn more about its history and recent archeological finds. Over in Yorktown, hop aboard a Stanley steamer ride and learn firsthand about the battle that ended the Revolution. Bonus points if you play the “Battle of Yorktown” while you do!

And in between all your history hopping? Take full advantage of Williamsburg’s status as “The Pancake Capital of the World.”

Anywhere on Route 66 for a Road Trip

This is the year of the Great American Road Trip, and there are so many fantastic road trips you can choose from. The one that’s close to my heart right now has to be all 2,448 gorgeous miles of Route 66! Now, don’t try to do the whole thing over your spring break. Not only would you be driving insane numbers every day, you’d spend so much time on the road, you’d miss out on what makes Route 66 so fun – the towns and side stops along the way.

I say pick 1-2 states to drive through and then map out where you want to go from there. Just keep in mind the weather, major festivals, and the changes in elevation and time zones.

Jeju, South Korea for Cherry Blossom Season

Willing to hop on a long flight half way across the world? Go somewhere to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom! While most travelers will start flooding Japan for hanami and even Seoul, South Korea will see its fair share of crowding at major cherry blossom spots, you’ll find relative peace on Jeju Island. Just an hour’s plane ride from Seoul, the island is not only full of fluffy cherry blossoms, it’s absolutely flooded with bright yellow canola fields everywhere you turn. Rent a car to drive around and don’t miss gorgeous Noksan-ro to get both cherry blossom and canola fields in one. If you’re up for some adventure, set aside a day to hike Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest mountain. And, of course, take advantage of island culture and sample all the seafood you come across!

Crystal Coast & Outer Banks, North Carolina for a Cool Beach Trip

And by cool, I mean the weather! The Outer Banks of North Carolina is full of visitors come summer but in March and April when temperatures hover in the 50s, you’ll find places that feel completely calm and quiet. The Crystal Coast in particular offers so much to do for spring breakers. Book a stay in charming Beaufort and then spend your day at Shackleford Banks witnessing the sheer beauty of horses in the wild. At night join the Crystal Coast Stargazers and take advantage of Cape Lookout’s International Dark Sky status. I particularly love a long stroll on a beach, and nowhere is quite as lovely as the one near Oceanana Pier House. When you’ve worked up an appetite, get their seafood boil!

See what I mean? Spring Break is definitely not just for students. Let me know your ideas below as well!

The post Spring Break Isn’t Just for Students appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

As I get older, I’ve learned that time is truly a luxury, and cruises have been such a crucial way of getting that time back. Whether it’s traveling with my kids, with my parents and in-laws, with friends and family, a cruise really allows us all to get together and just focus on being in the moment together.

Since I’ve been on so many over my years, I thought I’d compile all my tips for any newer cruiser to learn from. Check them all out below!

Booking Your Cruise

When to Book – Wave Season

To start, you should know that the absolutely best time to book a cruise is during what’s known as wave season. This can start as early as Black Friday but generally happens from January to March. The name comes from the wave of deals cruise lines will tout to entice you to pick them over competitors. Think discounted fairs, special deals, freebies, extra perks, and even upgrades. They do this because around now is low season for cruises!

It’s also when the most popular cruises, like the Inside Passage of Alaska, fill up so you want to be prepared to book as soon as possible if you want to have the most choices in terms of itinerary, rooms, packages,and excursions.

I recommend starting to do your research in the fall so you know what kind of cruise you want to do, which cruise lines offer the itinerary you want, and what they’re offering in normal times to compare with the deals they’ll offer during wave season.

How to Pick Your Cruise

That brings me to my next point – actually picking your cruise. There are so many options even just clicking into one cruise line’s website can feel overwhelming. Our Season 9 sponsor, Oceania Cruises, sails to 600 destinations across 100 countries alone!

I always think it’s fun to think of cruises like relationships and matchmaking. What are you looking for in a relationship? That’s probably the kind of cruise you’ll want. Short fling? Check out 3-4 day cruises with ports close to where you live. Something calm and peaceful? Look for longer itineraries that stop off at historic ports. Excitement and adventure? Look for more outdoorsy itineraries that’ll have you off the ship and in nature.

Consider booking through a travel agent or consultant.

I’m a big fan of travel agents in general but they’re especially great when booking cruises! They’ll often have access to better deals and perks than you would just booking on your own. One thing to ask about is on board credit (OBC).

Check exactly when you’re booking

If you’re hoping to avoid sharing your cruise with a bunch of students on school break, double check when you’re going. Being on a ship with hundreds of kids is a lot different than one with just a handful of families.

Join the Cruise Line Loyalty Program

Once you’ve figured out your itinerary and who you want to cruise with, look into joining their loyalty program even if it’s your first and you don’t think you’ll do another one anytime soon. Just being a member can have privileges like priority embarkation or disembarkation and hidden deals!

Before You Set Sail

Some Good Terms to Know

Embarkation – This describes the day you board your cruise for the trip.

Disembarkation – This is the day you leave your cruise.

Port of Call – This is where your ship will dock. Besides embarkation and disembarkation days, ports are usually where you’ll get off to wander or join an excursion.

Docked – Docked ports mean you can literally walk right off the cruise ship and onto land.

Tendered – Tendered ports mean you need to be ferried between the ship and the port. It’s kind of annoying so I usually plan to stay onboard for tendered port days. At most, I opt to be tendered later in the day so I can enjoy a more leisurely breakfast and skip the morning ferry rush.

Cabin Steward – This is who will help take care of you and your room.

Check just How All-Inclusive Your Cruise is

“All-Inclusive” is not always all inclusive! Cruise prices typically include room and board but don’t necessarily include excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, alcohol, and other amenities on board. Check over what’s included and what’s not and then budget accordingly so you’re not surprised with a huge bill at the end.

On the flip side, I’ve heard that quite a few newer cruisers didn’t realize just how much was included in their package so they missed out on a ton of cool amenities and dining experiences!

Book as much as possible in advance.

Once you’ve got your cruise booked, book as much as you can in advance. Popular activities or restaurants on board book up fast so it’s better to have that all organized as quickly as possible. Most cancellation policies are generous if you change your mind, but always good to double check!

You absolutely still need cash and plenty of it!

Always, always bring at least a few hundred bucks for tipping. In fact, bring more cash than you think you’ll need because ATM charges on board are brutal.

Even if tips are automatically charged, you’ll still be compelled to tip crew members in cash. They truly are some of the hardest workers I’ve ever encountered, and it’s really incredible how even though I know they’re balancing hundreds of cruisers at once, they manage to make me feel unique. That alone deserves extra appreciation.

Not to mention, it’s also expected that you tip bartenders, luggage handlers, shuttle drivers, port staff, waiters, guides, and more.

Check if Your Cruise Has an App

The Internet on board is notoriously quite slow. See if your cruise has an app and download it ahead of time. They’ll be so helpful with navigating the ship among other amenities and guides.

Make Note of Cruise Dress Codes

While many cruise lines have gone for casual, many still have recommended dress codes depending on what you’re doing. They’re pretty much the terminology as for weddings and business events, but in case you need a refresher:

• Casual –  Shorts, polos, sundresses. Think comfortable without being in your pajamas or workout gear!
• Smart Casual – Just a little dressier while still being comfortable. Think of something you’d wear to an office party. 
• Cruise Elegant – Think cocktail dresses and suits but not full blown black-tie. 
• Formal – Black-tie with tuxedos and evening gowns

In general, you do not want to plan on lounging around in T-shirts and shorts, leggings and tanks, or pajamas on a cruise.

Also Check Your Port of Call Country Dress Codes

It’s also important to make note of any country dress codes when you start packing. For example, churches in Europe may require you to have your shoulders and knees covered. Oh, and fun fact – quite a few countries completely ban camo!

What to Bring on Your Cruise

This one requires a post on its own for all the details and specific instructions. But for a quick overview:

• Double check your cruise’s recommended packing list. Besides the above dress codes, they’ll also know the local weather better than you. Remember summer doesn’t always mean hot.
• Always bring one fancier outfit. Even if there’s no obvious need for it, you’ll never be overdressed on a cruise, and it can be fun to get all dressed up one night!
• Magnetic hooks are an absolute godsend for in-room organization. All doors are metal for fire safety, and hooks are perfect for hanging up bags and clothes.
• Besides normal OTC medications, bring motion sickness remedies even if you don’t think you suffer from it. You never know, and it’s better to be overprepared for this than underprepared.
• Most hats will need some sort of chin strap. Things get windy aboard, make sure your hat has a strap so it doesn’t blow off into the sea.
• Pack shoes with nonslip, rubber soles. The deck gets slippery!

How Exactly to Pack

When I travel on a longer cruise, I tend to bring a checked bag, a carry-on, and a personal item. If it’s shorter than a week, I only bring a carry-on and personal item. (It’s doable, I promise!) Either way, prepare to not see your luggage for the first few hours of your cruise. Most of the time luggage won’t get delivered to your room until after dinner which can leave quite a few hours without access. In my personal item, I like to pack a change of clothes, a swimsuit, any medications I need, essential toiletries (specifically sunscreen!), and any important travel documents.

Bonus tip: if you’re traveling with multiple people in one stateroom or with multiple bags of luggage, label your luggage with 1/x, 2/x, etc. It’ll help luggage handlers with organization!

Do Some Emergency Planning Now Instead of Later

99.9% of the time you’ll enjoy your cruise with no issues and no major predicaments. However, in the small chance that you do experience some sort of emergency, it’s better to have a plan written out well before your trip rather than, you know, in the thick of things.

In general, I like to have a notebook with my travel agent’s number, emergency contacts, numbers of local hotels just in case, and the nearby US embassy or consulate emergency line. It’s also a good idea to have a few extra days of medicine and snacks in case you find yourself on board longer than you realize.

On Board

Get to Your Embarkation Port 1-2 Days Before

If you’re flying to your embarkation port, do NOT try to fly in on the day of. Give yourself at least a 24 hour grace period but I’d really recommend at least 48 hours. Just imagine how much more stressful a flight delay, missed flight connection, or missing luggage is if you only have a few hours leeway. Plus the few extra days in your embarkation port means you have time to enjoy the destination itself.

Go for a Long Walk Once You’re on Board

I do this when traveling to new destinations and on new cruises! Once you’re settled in, just go for a long walk to check out all the public areas, different restaurants, and hidden nooks. Even a large, popular ship has its “off the beaten path” spots. I use this walk to check out where I’m coming for my sunset cocktail, where I’m cozying up to read my book, and to see what’s looking a little quieter. Oftentimes specialty restaurants won’t be busy at all on embarkation day while the buffet will be a madhouse!

Look into Embarkation and Port Day Discounts

Many cruises offer them, take advantage!

Take the Ship’s Time Seriously

Do not, and I mean, do not be late to anything especially the return time from port of calls.

Pace Yourself

Seriously, there’s so much that goes on in a cruise, it can be easy to get overly excited and overwhelm yourself in the first few days. Just take a deep breath and pace yourself as you enjoy all the amenities and excursions.

Any tips you’d add for a new cruiser? Let’s hear them below!

The post Everything You Need to Know About Cruising appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

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Route 66 Travel Tips

Know just how long it takes to drive the whole thing.

It goes without saying but Route 66 is a long road trip. It covers nearly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) and runs through eight states. You do not want to shortchange your experience by trying to cover too much in too short of time.
I would say figure out how long you have to drive and note anything you absolutely must see and do. If you only drive a max of 3-4 hours a day, see what you can reasonably cover within that time and then figure out your start and finish.

When exactly should you drive?

Another big thing to consider is what time of year you should plan this road trip. While the idea of a massive summer adventure sounds fun, you’ll be battling some intense sun and hotter than hot temperatures. Arizona especially is a challenging state to explore in the middle of July.

On the flipside, it’s not exactly fun to try and drive through Illinois in the dead of winter!

Weatherwise, I’d say your best bet is to plan for the shoulder seasons. April through May should be lovely as should September through early November.

Westbound or Eastbound?

Another big question – which way to go? The classic route is westbound, so if you really want to be as true to the Route 66 journey as possible, start east and head west.

Car vs. RV?

Unless money is an issue, I’d highly recommend planning your road trip with a car. RVs are great if you’re trying to save on accommodation, but if you go via RV you miss out on one of the best parts of Route 66 – the quirky roadside motels!

We stayed in and visited so many fantastic motels from ones with those classic neon signs to ones that have been completely renovated, and I loved every single one of them. 

Car Safety and Insurance

As always make sure you’re squared away in terms of car safety and insurance. If you’re driving your own car, just pay a visit to your local mechanic to make sure it’s up to driving thousands of miles across the country through various terrain. If you’re renting a car, likewise make sure you rent a car up to all sorts of conditions. 

Check my general road trip tips guide for more details on what you should pack in your car and have on hand in case of emergencies!

You do not want to just rely on Google or Apple Maps.

As I mentioned above, Route 66 is a decommissioned highway. This means you can’t just plug “Route 66” on Google or Apple Maps and expect to find a clean line from Chicago to Santa Monica. While a lot of the highway coincides with US Route 40, often it does not. Sometimes you’ll find yourself on a dirt road and on one occasion you’ll be stopped at a literal US military base and unable to drive through!

I highly recommend going old school and using paper maps. I relied heavily on the EZ66 Guide for Travelers. Jerry McClanahan quite literally covers every possible stop and side journey imaginable!

Be aware of changing climates and time zones.

Most Americans will already know this but if you’re coming from out of the country, please know that this country is physically massive. Route 66 goes through eight states and three time zones. Whatever weather and climate you experience in Illinois and Missouri will be vastly different than what you find in California and Arizona. If you plan on traveling through all states, just make sure you pack accordingly.

And also elevation changes.

This is also where I warn you about massive elevation changes! For example, Chicago, IL is just under 600ft above sea level. Flagstaff, AZ is 7,000ft. If you’ve never experienced traveling through higher elevations, I highly recommend looking up advice for acclimating. It can be quite the shock to just suddenly ascend thousands of feet. One member on my crew even had a low level headache the entire time we were in Arizona!

Keep your daily driving to 3-4 hours max.

Don’t underestimate how tiring driving for long hours can be. Part of what makes Route 66 such a fun journey is how often you’ll want to stop off to admire the view, visit a unique attraction, and just explore small towns. If you try to fit in hours of driving, you’ll run out of time to stop off and find yourself exhausted at the end of each day. Ideally keep it to 2-3 hours but truly do not do more than 3-4 unless you want to battle fatigue.

Research the fun quirks of Route 66 so you know they’re coming.

While I do think part of the appeal of Route 66 is allowing yourself to discover all the different stops along the way, as a planner I do love having some idea of what I’m going to encounter! Do some research (like watching our show ;)) and make note of what’s coming.

For example, you’re going to start seeing little signs with a jack rabbit on them and some sort of number of miles away. You won’t have your answer until you’re all the way in Arizona.

In general, though, avoid a strict schedule.

While you save the stops you want to make, just also ensure you have plenty of time to wander, get lost, and even veer away from Route 66 to explore nearby places. This highway truly is about the journey not the destination, and if you regiment yourself down to the hour, you’ll miss out on a ton.

Be sure to build in rest days.

I will say the one thing to put in your schedule as a non-negotiable is rest days. Set aside at least one day for every week you plan on driving. It’s good to stay put in a hotel for more than one night, have a few hours to do laundry, and just know you don’t need to hop in a car for more than a few minutes. When we had our rest day in Flagstaff, I made sure to stretch my legs on a nice hike and then re-organize all my belongings.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!

They say Americans love to chat and nowhere is this truer than with folks along Route 66. Every person we met both for the show and in between was friendly and passionate about this highway. And that’s not even including other fellow road trippers from all over the world. Meeting people from all different backgrounds and hearing their stories is what really made this trip so special. You just never know who you’ll wind up making small talk with. This is not the trip to be shy!

That said, still practice normal safety precautions.

Be open to meeting new people but, as always, practice the same kind of safety you’d practice anywhere. If you’re road tripping alone, never tell a stranger that. Tell them you have a partner just in another shop or you’re meeting a friend from nearby for dinner. And if they ask where you’re off to next or where you plan on staying, just lie.

You should also always share your location with someone at home, and keep pepper spray in your glove department or in your purse just in case. Don’t venture out late at night if you’re unfamiliar with your surroundings, and always check with someone like your hotel front desk to make sure a trail is safe for you.

And, as always, trust your instincts. If something feels off, better safe than sorry!

Never leave anything visible in your car.

Another  general safety tip is to avoid leaving anything visible in your car. Route 66 does go through some bigger cities and while 99% of the time you’ll be fine, there’s always that 1% chance the wrong person comes across your car, sees something they want, sees the out of state plates, and decides it’s their chance to get away with a break in.

Better to not give them any incentive even if it’s something as innocuous as a sweater or pair of sunglasses.

Do not skimp on sun protection.

This is where I pull the mom card and remind you to protect your skin even inside a car! You especially want to apply and re-apply sunscreen to the back of your hands. Just think of how long they rest on the steering wheel in direct sunlight when driving.

Figuring out parking along Route 66

For the most part, you shouldn’t have any issues with finding free parking outside of the major cities. When it comes to the cities, though, I’d just do a little planning ahead of time so you know where you want to park and what apps to pre-download. If you want guaranteed parking and don’t mind paying, SpotHero is a great app to reserve ahead of time.

Navigating gas stations

Download the GasBuddy app for all the cheapest gas stations. And know that gas prices can vary wildly state to state. Whatever you do, make sure to fill up before you get into California. Those prices absolutely sky rocket.

And for non-American travelers, most pumps will require a zip code. Talk to your bank to see what you can do ahead of time or bring enough cash to pre-pay in the store.

Can you avoid tolls on Route 66?

Short answer – yes. If you follow Route 66 strictly, you should avoid tolls completely. There are two highways you might run into around Chicago and Oklahoma but if you navigate using the EZ guide I mentioned above, you won’t have to worry.

There are two Route 66s in New Mexico.

Okay, here’s a very specific bit of advice because I know it can be confusing. When it comes to New Mexico, there are two different Route 66s. They call them the original or pre-1927 alignment and the new or post-1927 alignment. The original is an S curve that goes through Santa Fe and down through Albuquerque while the new alignment goes straight from Santa Rosa through Albuquerque. You can drive both, and we opted for the longer route through Santa Fe.

The official (and spiritual) end of Route 66 vs…

Fun fact: there are two ends to Route 66. The official and spiritual one is at the Santa Monica Pier. Get your official completion certificate and visit the 66 to Cali kiosk for the very last stop mentioned in your guide. Don’t forget to take an epic photo with the End of Route 66 sign nearby and, hey, hop onto the famous roller coaster for one more celebration!

The actual end of Route 66

If you want to also visit the actual end of Route 66, visit Mel’s Drive-in about a mile inland from Santa Monica Pier. They even have a bell you can ring!

Have you driven Route 66? Share your tips below!

The post So You Wanna Drive Route 66… appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

What’s a Dead Week?

A Dead Week is a period of time where there’s a massive lull in travel. They typically follow major peak holiday travel and can be shorter or longer depending on the time of year. The big ones are:

• 1-2 Weeks after Thanksgiving (depending on when it falls)
• Pretty much all of January
• Sometimes the first 2 weeks of February
• Right after Labor Day from Tuesday – Thursday

Of course there are some caveats to this. No major ski resort or hot weather destination is going to be inexpensive in January or February. Cities on the other hand – this might be your chance to score the lowest hotel costs of the year. Beach towns will also be nice and quiet.

Pros of Deadweek Travel

As far as I’m concerned, there are far more pros to dead week travel than cons! Top of the list:

• You’ll avoid crowds – There’s a reason it’s called “Dead Week.” Who doesn’t love avoiding wait times and long lines?
• Prices will be their lowest – If you’re ever going to score a too-good-to-be-true deal on a hotel, flight, or restaurant, it’s going to happen during a Dead Week.
• You’ll avoid more extreme heat – Have you been to popular European spots during high season, aka the summer, lately? It is hot. And when I say the summers are hot, I mean 80F in, say, Barcelona feels a lot worse than 80F in New York City. Chalk it up to a difference in opinion on air conditioning and air flow! If you go during a Dead Week, you may not get the best weather conditions but you’ll definitely avoid having to change your shirt every few hours.

Cons of Deadweek Travel

• Places may be closed – One major con of Dead Week travel is that if you go somewhere more seasonal (like a beach town), a lot of its popular attractions and restaurants may be fully closed during your stay. Always best to check before you book so you’re not left disappointed. 
• Weather might be terrible – Part of why there’s a lull in travel during Dead Week periods is the weather. However, if there’s one thing I learned from the Scandinavians, you just need to adjust your outfits to enjoy!

How to Figure Out a Destination’s Dead Week

The best indicator of a destination’s Dead Week is if they have some sort of Restaurant Week. If you haven’t heard of Restaurant Week, it’s when a lot of different restaurants will offer special menus or deals that seem almost too good to be true. It’s a way, as you might guess, to combat the lull in bookings during a Dead Week. NYC pioneered this trend all the way back in 1992 and has even added a Hotel Week. The two coincide with each other and pretty reliably fall at the end of January and beginning of February. 

When to Book Your Trip

To fully maximize your savings, book your trip at some point in mid to late August. This is when airlines announce their after summer pricing, and you can easily find fares that’ll be 30-50% off their peak season highs.

I feel like scoring major deals on flights, restaurants, and accommodation is worth a little cold, gray weather!

Do Cruises Have Dead Weeks?

Kind of! They’re not necessarily the periods I outlined above. If you’re looking at seasonal cruises like the Inside Passage of Alaska or Christmas Market river cruises, your best bet for finding a good deal is looking at the first or last week of the season.

Ideas of Where to Go for Dead Week Travel

All right, now that you know all there is to know about Dead Week travel and why I love it, here are some ideas of where to look.

New York City, USA

Of course I have to mention my hometown and the pioneer of Restaurant Week. NYC is known for its notoriously fast-paced crowds and ridiculous prices so go during a Dead Week to avoid most of the chaos. While Dead Week weather won’t exactly be the most pleasant unless you manage that short period after Labor Day, you’ll hardly notice as you bop in and out of shops, cozy up at restaurants and cafes, and spend hours inside its world class museums. These days, even Brooklyn has some restaurant deals!

Vienna, Austria

I love Vienna, especially in winter. People complain that it gets dark early but cities like Vienna are absolutely magical at night when they’re all lit up. Not to mention there’s a strong café culture, so you can spend your afternoons testing out all their beautiful cafés while sipping on strong coffee and nibbling at your cake. The palaces turned museums will keep you entertained for hours, especially during particularly cold days, and if you visit during January and February, you’ll come during Ball Season!

Northern Taiwan

Most people think “island country in Asia,” and they think Taiwan is a warm weather destination all year round. And while the south stays pretty warm even in January and February, northern Taiwan where Taipei is actually gets quite cool. Crowds are few and far between, and you’ll find things quite peaceful! Just don’t go on around Chinese New Year because then things really will be dead as everyone closes down for a few days and the city completely empties out.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is another European city that’ll be fun to wander and get lost in no matter how cold it gets. Their cuisine is even built for chillier weather. Just tell me chicken paprikash and goulash don’t taste best in the winter. Not to mention the hot water baths Budapest is famous for will feel almost medicinal!

Corning, New York, USA

While the Finger Lakes really comes alive in the summer, it’s still just as charming in the winter. Instead of staying further out along the lakes, stay in Corning. It’s a large town with a lot going on. You’ll get access to some great vineyards nearby (try the riesling!), but you’ll still have plenty to do when you don’t want to drive out. The Corning Museum of Glass is such a fantastic spot for the history of glass and Corning’s own role in it. After all, you’ve definitely heard of Corning glass before! NASA used it in its first spaceships and apparently Steve Jobs called asking them if they could make a glass screen for the iphones. Gaffer District is also full of great little restaurants, shops, spas, and, another great museum, this time with a focus on American art.

Paris, France

While Paris is largely characterized by gray skies and that damp kind of cold, I promise you’ll be so impressed by the architecture and general vibe of the city, you won’t even notice. And in fact that cold weather will feel pleasant as you wander along boulevards and through various arrondissements. Plus Parisians will likely be a bit more patient than they are during the summer season when crowds and temperatures are at their highest. The only thing I would suggest is skipping anything with a garden. Versailles is beautiful but its real charm is in its massive garden not the interior of the palace, and if you go in the off season, it’s just a lot of dead greenery.

Crystal Coast, North Carolina, USA

Another one of my favorite places to visit during a Dead Week would be the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. It occupies 85 miles of the Outer Banks and is a magical place to visit. Just take your pick — excellent food, wild horses, protected International Dark sky… And for your romance fans, Beaufort is where A Walk to Remember is set.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The best time Dead Week to visit Ho Chi Minh City is actually during Tet (aka Chinese New Year/Lunar New Year). While Taipei will feel like a ghost town, Ho Chi Minh City is still populous enough that many places are still very much open and the city hits that sweet spot between busy but not overwhelmingly so. It might be the least smoggiest few days of the whole year! Not to mention, the main street, Nguyen Hue Street, is absolutely packed with gorgeous decorations to celebrate whichever Zodiac year it is. Go to the Apartment Cafes to get a coffee and see the whole thing from above. 

And when you need a city break, instead of heading north to hot spots like Hoi An, Da Nang, or Hanoi, head east for the beaches or south for the Mekong Delta.

Xi’an, China

Xi’an is such an incredible place. Their main claim to fame is the mystical Terracotta Warriors, but what I love about it is its history as an ancient capital. The city still has so much of that romance and historic feel. It’s also completely walled in, so you truly cannot get lost. Just wander around til you hit a wall and then go the other way!

Doengal, Ireland

Donegal is about a 3-hour drive from the Dublin Airport and has a spot that I think is even more dramatic than the Cliffs of Moher — the Slieve League Cliffs. They’re 2.5 times higher and feel like there’s not a single soul there. While you visit Donegal, stop into Leo’s Tavern. Not only is it a fantastic spot to grab a pint and enjoy the music, it’s home to the Brennan family. You may have heard of their most famous member. She known best by her first name… Enya.

What are your thoughts on Dead Week travel? Have you ever planned a trip during one? Let me know!

The post Why You Should Consider Traveling During a Dead Week appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

First things first, either get your passport or make sure it doesn’t need to be renewed.

Before I even get into the other resolutions, we should address the most important (and probably least fun) one first. If you do not have a passport, take this as your sign to get one now instead of waiting. They last ten years, so even if you don’t have an international trip coming up in 2026, wouldn’t you rather have one less thing to worry about when you do?

And for those of you with passports, take it out right now and check both the expiration date and how many blank pages you have left. Time flies, and a lot of countries have specific entry requirements when it comes to both. For example, many will require your passport to be valid 2-3 months starting the day you arrive AND have 2 blank pages.

Plan for your whole year of travel NOW!

If your goal is to maximize your travel opportunities this year, then I would sit down with a calendar and start mapping out your vacation days now. 

Americans are the WORST when it comes to taking the vacation time we are owed, and so many people I know end the year with unused time off that doesn’t carry over. One analysis estimated Americans had more than $312 billion in unused vacation days in 2023. Make this year the year you do not do that and take every single day you’re owed!

Mapping everything out now when you’re in that “new year, new me” mindset will make you much more likely to actually go on those trips when the time comes.

Plan your trip using REAL people.

If you’re the type of person to plan a trip with ChaptGPT or some other AI robot… Please let this be the year you utilize REAL people and their experiences! Besides the damage AI data centers are doing to our planet, ChatGPT is only as good as the information it can pull from the internet. Whether you use a travel agent or research posts from bloggers and content creators online, just get your advice from actual, living, breathing human beings this year.

Make sure you’re healthy.

I don’t know about you, but as I get older, I find I’m paying more attention to my body’s overall health – and it’s not just because I want to be fit for the camera. It’s more like I want to make sure I can handle the physical toll a trip can take. Imagine visiting the Great Wall of China and getting too winded to walk more than ten minutes? Or worse you pull something in the middle of your tour!

I generally just want to make sure my joints move the way they’re supposed to and that I have enough strength and endurance to enjoy wherever I go. Part of that means doing more weightlifting at the gym but also just stretching more and committing to warming up in the morning.

Plus health is more than just physical fitness. Now’s the time to check on your internal health as well – think heart, stomach, etc. You do NOT want to learn you have a heart condition halfway around the world.

Travel alone.

I love to travel alone and find it incredibly rewarding. With no “partner in crime,” I open up to meeting new people and seeking new experiences, plus people find me more approachable as well. Not in a creepy way either. 

Alone you go where YOU want, see what YOU want to see, and wander to your heart’s content. It’s a fantastic way of getting to know yourself better and challenging yourself in a variety of ways. There’s something both liberating and empowering when you are 100% in control of your schedule even if it’s just for a day trip or a full vacation.

Expand your bucket list.

Here’s a little challenge for you – expand your bucket list. By that I mean pick maybe 2-3 random places around the world and do a little research on them. See if they make your travel bucket list. Go for really far off places from where you live or, hey, look around your state and see if there’s a town or region you’d never looked into before. Part of what makes travel so fun is being curious, so keep growing your curiosity!

Plan that trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Have you been daydreaming of wandering the cobblestone streets of Italy for years and years… and years and years? Well, there’s no time like the present! So plan that trip, and start doing it now. Did you know the psychologists say that just planning a vacation puts you in the same happy zone as going on one? Planning gets you ever closer to your dream (and is free) and then you’ll have planned so much of your trip it will eventually happen. Think “if you build it, they will come…” but instead it’s “if you plan it, you will go.”

Stop over-packing.

Here’s a resolution for you overpackers. Make a plan to pack better. I’ll never forget the craziness of dealing with luggage lost in Europe one summer. It made me tell my mom we were only taking carry-ons for our 9-day winter trip later that year. Trust me it’s doable. Sure, in the beginning I was worried I didn’t have enough clothing options, but, you know what? I was just fine, and by mid-trip I was so happy we were traveling light. No lugging 50lb suitcases for us!

Master the art of airline miles and credit card points.

Unless you have a long-term plan, why hoard your miles and credit card points? Use ‘em! From deals on flights to hotels and rental cars, make your miles and points work for you instead of collecting proverbial dust. If the thought of figuring them out feels daunting, let me make it as simple as possible.

Put everything on your credit cards and pay them off immediately. Every dollar spent will go towards points, and the key is figuring out which credit cards make the most sense for what you want. I recommend looking up some beginner tutorials or asking a friend who’s well versed in points and miles to “explain it to you like you’re five.” The key is to keep it simple and not get too into the whole “open up 5 different cards to maximize your points” scenarios. At most you need 1-2 to take full advantage of their offerings.

Plus many cards have added perks like lounge access, Global Entry or TSA Pre-check reimbursement, and rental car insurance!

Travel outside your comfort zone.

Do you visit the same resort every February? Do you only book cruises because they’re easy? Do you only ever eat the same ten different foods? Why not change it up? Pick your favorite port town and spend a week there. Rent a house in your usual place to get more of a feel for the local vibe. And if ease is important to you, work with a travel agent. 

Travel is a natural environment for challening your comfort zone. Whether you’re somewhere completely new or a place you’ve visited many times, pushing through the discomfort of something you aren’t used to and coming out the other side still alive will reward you with not only self-confidence, but often a fulfilling travel experience. This applies when you aren’t traveling too!

What’s your best travel-related New Year’s resolution? Share in the comments below!

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